Memantine extended release capsules

What is this medicine?

MEMANTINE (MEM an teen) is used to treat dementia caused by Alzheimer's disease.

How should I use this medicine?

Take this medicine by mouth with a glass of water. Follow the directions on the prescription label. You may take this medicine with or without food. You may swallow the capsules whole or open them and sprinkle the entire contents on applesauce before swallowing. Other than sprinkling the medicine on applesauce, the capsules should be swallowed whole and not divided, chewed, or crushed. Take your doses at regular intervals. Do not take your medicine more often than directed. Continue to take your medicine even if you feel better. Do not stop taking except on the advice of your doctor or health care professional.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?

Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

agitation or a feeling of restlessness

allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue

depressed mood

dizziness

hallucinations

redness, blistering, peeling or loosening of the skin, including inside the mouth

seizures

vomiting

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):

constipation

diarrhea

headache

nausea

trouble sleeping

What may interact with this medicine?

acetazolamide

amantadine

cimetidine

dextromethorphan

dofetilide

hydrochlorothiazide

ketamine

metformin

methazolamide

quinidine

ranitidine

sodium bicarbonate

triamterene

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses. If you do not take your medicine for several days, contact your health care provider. Your dose may need to be changed.

Where should I keep my medicine?

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

difficulty passing urine

kidney disease

liver disease

seizures

an unusual or allergic reaction to memantine, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives

pregnant or trying to get pregnant

breast-feeding

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

Visit your doctor or health care professional for regular checks on your progress. Check with your doctor or health care professional if there is no improvement in your symptoms or if they get worse.

You may get drowsy or dizzy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs mental alertness until you know how this drug affects you. Do not stand or sit up quickly, especially if you are an older patient. This reduces the risk of dizzy or fainting spells. Alcohol can make you more drowsy and dizzy. Avoid alcoholic drinks.